Milton Church of England Primary School

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 23 November 2023

Pupils appreciate how teachers ensure lessons are informative and enjoyable. They like their teachers and the staff who support them. Pupils typically use words like 'amazing' and 'fascinating' to describe their learning. They especially enjoy studying texts by Dickens and Shakespeare. Pupils talk animatedly about science, art and physical education lessons. They also like the chance to revisit what they have learned so they remember it. Pupils show their 'Milton Manners' and follow the school rules. They like the '123 Magic' approach to ensuring they make good behaviour choices. Pupils are motivated by collecting points for a whole-class reward. They trust that adults will help them if they have any worries. Pupils feel safe. There is a range of clubs in which pupils can participate, including chess, gymnastics, choir and dance. Football for boys and girls is popular, with support from Cambridge United coaches in lessons. Pupils look forward to residentials and various school trips, such as to learn more about the Anglo-Saxons or to visit London. Pupils take on roles as members of the school or eco-council. They look forward to being play leaders. Older pupils enjoy reading to the younger children. They also take part in community projects.

What the school should improve

• In some instances, pupils have gaps in their knowledge that are not always addressed quickly enough. This limits pupils from acquiring the depth of understanding leaders intend. Staff need to check pupils' understanding within lessons more effectively and in a timely manner so that gaps are filled as quickly as possible.
• For a few pupils with SEND, targets set are not always precise enough or broken down into small enough steps. This means that some learning opportunities for these few pupils are not always maximised. Leaders need to support staff to have the specific skills and knowledge to set and deliver precise learning goals for these pupils. Leaders then need to ensure that these targets are reviewed more frequently and that parents are kept regularly updated.
• Some parents do not feel that they are kept fully informed as to how their children are achieving at school. This can cause concern for some parents. Leaders, including governors, recognise this and need to strengthen communication systems with parents to ensure an effective working partnership between home and school.

Read the full Ofsted report (opens in a new tab)